What are clinical psychology admissions committees looking for ...

[coco]

Aside from the obvious (be smart, be professional, etc.), what specifically should I do (or not do) during my admissions interview for a clinical psychology PsyD program?

[j_sun]

Make a point of running a PsychInfo search on all the potential review committee members. Be familiar with their research interests so you can speak intelligently about them. If you are even REMOTELY interested in the areas represented by their most recent publications, SAY IT (or ask questions about it - make an effort to appear GENUINELY INTERESTED in their most recent publications and current research projects).

HIGHLIGHT your clinical experience. Even if it is limited.

HIGHLIGHT your research experience. Even if it is limited.

Be prepared with some questions FOR THEM. Have some intelligent questions prepared which show off your interest in the program. Frame them in such a way that it looks like you've done your homework on that program, and have SPECIFIC questions.

Present yourself with CONFIDENCE. This is very important. How you perform under pressure is an excellent indicator as to how you will perform in grad school. If you don't FEEL confident - then fake it (yes, I'm serious).

If possible, talk to a few current students ahead of time, and get THEIR input. Folks already in the program can give you the REAL scoop.

Best of luck to you in your future educational endeavors,
~M~

[camila]

usually that you understand the rules, regulations, laws, procedures and basic theraputic principals.